16262, Worthington, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16262, Worthington, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.04 percent of residents in 16262 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Acmh Hospital with a distance of 4.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16262

Considering a move to Worthington, Pennsylvania, ZIP Code 16262? This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the potential impact of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, and how transportation options within and around the area might influence your journey. We will explore the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for residents of this rural community.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, is not a medical diagnosis but a comprehensive evaluation of the practical difficulties a resident might face in accessing timely and effective lung cancer care. This includes understanding the time commitment, the financial burden, and the overall stress associated with traveling to and from medical appointments. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation landscape and its potential impact on the well-being of individuals facing this serious disease.

Worthington, nestled in Armstrong County, offers a tranquil, small-town atmosphere. However, its rural location presents significant transportation challenges. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, including those equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer, are located outside the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel, adding complexity and potential stress to an already difficult situation.

Driving is undoubtedly the most common mode of transportation. Residents of 16262 primarily rely on personal vehicles to access healthcare. The primary routes involve navigating the local roads and highways. Heading south, the most direct route to the nearest hospital with oncology services, ACMH Hospital in Kittanning, involves taking PA-28 South. The drive, typically spanning 15-20 minutes, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.

Alternatively, traveling north on PA-28, one can reach Clarion Hospital, also offering oncology services. This drive, although slightly longer, approximately 30-40 minutes, may be preferable depending on appointment availability or specialist preferences. The journey involves navigating through rural landscapes, which can be beautiful but also present challenges during inclement weather.

Further afield, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system provides comprehensive cancer care. Accessing UPMC facilities, such as UPMC Shadyside or UPMC Presbyterian, requires a significantly longer drive. This involves taking PA-28 South to the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) West, and then navigating the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. This commute can easily exceed an hour, even without traffic, and can be considerably longer during rush hour or on weekends.

Public transportation options are limited in Worthington and the surrounding area. The Armstrong County Transportation Authority (ACTA) provides some bus services, but these are primarily designed for local travel and do not offer direct routes to major healthcare facilities. The ACTA services may not run frequently enough to accommodate the needs of patients requiring regular appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, critical for individuals with mobility limitations, must be confirmed in advance, and the routes may not be optimized for medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips to and from medical appointments can quickly become a significant financial burden, adding to the stress of a lung cancer diagnosis.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are another option. Companies like MedTrans or First Choice Medical Transportation offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive. The cost can be partially covered by insurance, but out-of-pocket expenses can still be substantial.

The impact of these transportation challenges on lung cancer patients can be profound. Frequent trips to the hospital for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care can be exhausting and time-consuming. The financial burden of transportation costs can exacerbate the stress associated with the disease. The lack of convenient and reliable transportation can also lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and reduced access to specialized care. This can negatively impact patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

For someone moving to Worthington, the implications of these transportation limitations need careful consideration. The availability of a reliable personal vehicle is essential. The potential for long travel times to medical appointments should be factored into daily routines and treatment plans. The cost of transportation, including gas, car maintenance, and potential ride-sharing or medical transport expenses, needs to be budgeted.

Furthermore, individuals with lung cancer may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other physical limitations. These symptoms can make driving or using public transportation even more challenging. The availability of support systems, such as family members, friends, or community organizations that can provide transportation assistance, becomes crucial.

The Lung Cancer Score in 16262 highlights the crucial interplay between transportation and healthcare access. While Worthington offers a peaceful environment, its rural location presents significant hurdles for those requiring specialized medical care. Understanding these challenges is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare and planning for the future.

The decision to move to Worthington requires a comprehensive assessment, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those at risk of developing lung cancer. Careful consideration of transportation options, healthcare access, and the availability of support systems is essential. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the practical implications of these factors and making informed choices about where to live and how to manage healthcare needs.